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1
Heat the oven to 350 degrees F and arrange a rack in the middle.
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2
Coat a 9-inch round cake pan with butter and dust with flour, tapping out the excess; set aside.
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3
Have a whisk and rubber spatula on hand.
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4
In a medium bowl, whisk together the measured flour, cinnamon, cloves, pepper, and salt to break up any lumps and aerate; set aside.
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5
In a large bowl, whisk the molasses, oil, and sugar until smooth.
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6
In a large saucepan, bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
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7
Whisk in the baking soda, then whisk in the molasses mixture until combined; remove from heat.
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8
Using the rubber spatula, stir the ginger into the molasses mixture.
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9
Whisk the dry ingredients, a little at a time, into the batter until just combined.
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10
Using the rubber spatula, stir in the eggs until just combined.
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11
Again using the rubber spatula, transfer the batter to the prepared pan and spread evenly.
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12
Bake in the oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 45 to 50 minutes.
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13
Place on a rack to cool for at least 30 minutes.
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14
Run a knife around the perimeter of the pan and remove the cake from the pan.
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15
If you choose, dust with powdered sugar and serve with whipped cream.
